NexGard is a popular flea and tick preventative for dogs, but many owners wonder, “Does NexGard kill fleas already on my dog?” The answer is a resounding yes. NexGard begins working quickly, killing adult fleas within hours of administration, providing rapid relief for your itchy companion. This article dives deep into how NexGard works, its effectiveness, and everything you need to know to keep your furry friend flea-free.
How Does NexGard Work Against Existing Fleas?
NexGard contains afoxolaner, an insecticide that works by disrupting the nerve signals of fleas and ticks, leading to paralysis and death. Once your dog ingests the chewable tablet, afoxolaner is absorbed into the bloodstream and distributed throughout the body. When fleas bite your dog and feed on its blood, they ingest the afoxolaner, quickly leading to their demise.
How Quickly Does NexGard Kill Existing Fleas?
NexGard starts killing fleas within 30 minutes of administration and achieves 100% efficacy within 8 hours. This rapid action provides fast relief for dogs suffering from flea infestations.
Does NexGard Prevent Future Flea Infestations?
Beyond killing existing fleas, NexGard also provides month-long protection against future infestations. This means a single dose can keep your dog flea-free for up to 30 days.
What About Flea Eggs and Larvae?
While NexGard is highly effective against adult fleas, it doesn’t directly kill flea eggs or larvae. However, by eliminating the adult fleas, it breaks the flea life cycle, preventing further reproduction and ultimately reducing the overall flea population in your environment.
What are the benefits of using NexGard for flea control?
NexGard offers several benefits, including its tasty beef-flavored chewable tablet that most dogs readily accept. It’s also waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about reapplying after swimming or bathing.
Are There Any Side Effects?
NexGard is generally safe for dogs, but some may experience mild side effects like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or decreased appetite. These are usually temporary and resolve on their own. If you notice any severe or persistent side effects, consult your veterinarian.
“NexGard’s fast-acting formula is a game-changer for flea control. I’ve seen firsthand how quickly it relieves itching and discomfort in infested dogs.” – Dr. Emily Carter, DVM
“The monthly protection offered by NexGard is a huge plus for busy pet owners. It simplifies flea and tick prevention, making it easier to keep pets protected.” – Dr. John Miller, DVM
Conclusion
NexGard effectively kills fleas already on your dog and provides ongoing protection against future infestations. Its rapid action, convenient administration, and month-long effectiveness make it a popular choice for dog owners. Always consult your veterinarian before starting any new flea and tick preventative.
FAQ
- How often should I give my dog NexGard? NexGard should be administered once a month.
- Can I give NexGard to puppies? Yes, NexGard is safe for puppies 8 weeks and older weighing at least 4 pounds.
- What if my dog vomits after taking NexGard? If your dog vomits within 2 hours of taking NexGard, administer another dose.
- Is NexGard safe for pregnant or lactating dogs? Studies have shown NexGard to be safe for breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs.
- Can I use NexGard with other medications? Consult your veterinarian before using NexGard with other medications.
- Where can I purchase NexGard? NexGard is available through your veterinarian or licensed online pharmacies.
- What should I do if my dog still has fleas after taking NexGard? Consult your veterinarian, as there might be underlying issues or environmental factors contributing to the infestation.
Other Helpful Articles on Beaut Dogs
- Choosing the Right Flea and Tick Preventative for Your Dog
- Understanding the Flea Life Cycle
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